Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has given a resounding seal of approval to the Tigers’ 2015 debutants.
Six players have made their senior league debuts for Richmond this season, with three of them – Kamdyn McIntosh, Corey Ellis and Connor Menadue – making valuable contributions during the team’s recent winning run.
McIntosh, 21, had a major impact from the outset this season, receiving an AFL Rising Star nomination following his fine first-up performance in the opening round win against Carlton at the MCG.
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He has managed to maintain his place in the side every match since then, averaging just over 17 disposals per game and helping boost the Tigers’ running capacity.
Ellis, 18, debuted in the Round 5 loss to Geelong, and has shown exciting glimpses of his silky skills in the five senior appearances he’s made.
Menadue, also 18, has impressed with his pace and running ability since debuting in the Round 7 victory over Collingwood.
“They’re very smart in the way they go about the game,” Hardwick said on SEN.
“Kamdyn McIntosh is a guy that’s been in our system for three years. He’s had a horrific run with injury, but from our point of view, he’s starting to play some really consistent footy. He hasn’t missed a beat.
“And, those other two boys in (Corey) Ellis and (Connor) Menadue, for guys that have played relatively few games in our system, they look incredibly experienced.
“The decisions they make are extraordinary for such young kids.
“We’re really pleased with what they’ve been able to put out on the park, but, more importantly, the ability to play their role and understand their role . . .
“They’re going to be good players for us.”